Chapter 14 Flashcards
Unified government
The same party controls the White House and both houses of Congress.
Gridlock
The inability of the government to act because rival parties control different parts of the government
Electoral College
The people chosen to cast each state’s votes in a presidential election. Each state can cast one electoral vote for each senator and representative it has. The District of Columbia has three electoral votes, even though it cannot elect a representative or senator.
Divided Government
One party controls the White House and another party controls one or both of the houses of congress
Bully pulpit
The presidents use of his prestige and visibility to guide or enthuse the American public
Veto message
A message from the president to Congress stating that he will not sign a bill it has passed. Must be produced within 10 days of the bills passage.
Pocket veto
A bill fails to become law because the president did not sign it within 10 days before congress adjourns.
Line-item veto
An executives ability to block a particular provision in a bill passed by the legislature.
Signing statement
A presidential document that reveals what the president thinks of a new law and how it ought to be enforced.
Pyramid structure
A presidents subordinates report him through a clear chain of cam and headed by a chief of staff.
Circular structure
Several of the presidents assistants report directly to him.
Ad Hoc Structure
Several subordinates, cabinet officers, and committees report directly to the president on different matters.
Cabinet
The heads of the 15 executive branch departments of the federal governments
Legislative veto
The authority of congress to block a presidential acts after it has taken place. The Supreme Court has held at Congress does not have this power.
Impeachment
Charges against a president approved by a majority of the House of Representatives.
